Compact fluorescent lamp having increased light output

Abstract

Light output of compact fluorescent lamps is increased by providing metal base members within the lamp with a diffuse light reflecting coating such as, e.g., zirconium dioxide.

I claim: 
     
       1. A fluorescent lamp comprising: an hermetically sealed outer envelope containing an arc generating and sustaining medium; an assembly positioned within said envelope, said assembly comprising a pair of U shaped tubes coated on their interior surface with a phosphor, each of said tubes having an electrode end carrying an electrode and an open end; and an arc directing means operatively associated with said ends of said tubes, said arc directing means comprising a base member mounting said tubes, said base member having a first planar surface facing said tubes and a second planar surface which includes an arc director connecting said open ends of said tubes; and a light reflecting coating on said first planar surface. 
     
     
       2. The fluorescent lamp of claim 1 wherein said light reflecting coating is white. 
     
     
       3. The fluorescent lamp of claim 2 wherein said light reflecting coating is comprised of zirconium dioxide.